Coombs test

Definition

The Coombs test looks for antibodies that may stick to your red blood cells and cause red blood cells to die too early.

Alternative Names

Direct antiglobulin test; Indirect antiglobulin test

How the Test is Performed

A blood sample is needed.

How to Prepare for the Test

No special preparation is necessary for this test.

How the Test will Feel

When the needle is inserted to draw blood, some people feel moderate pain. Others feel only a prick or stinging. Afterward, there may be some throbbing or slight bruising. This soon goes away.

Why the Test is Performed

There are two types of the Coombs test:

Direct

Indirect

The direct Coombs test is used to detect antibodies that are stuck to the surface of red blood cells. Many diseases and drugs can cause this. These antibodies sometimes destroy red blood cells and cause anemia. Your doctor may order this test if you have signs or symptoms of anemia or jaundice.

The indirect Coombs test looks for free-flowing antibodies against certain red blood cells. It is is most often done to determine if you may have a reaction to a blood transfusion.

Normal Results

A normal result means there was no clumping of cells (agglutination). This means you have no antibodies to red blood cells.

Normal value ranges may vary slightly among different laboratories. Some labs use different measurements or test different samples. Talk to your doctor about the meaning of your specific test results.

What Abnormal Results Mean

An abnormal (positive) direct Coombs test means you have antibodies that act against your red blood cells. This may be due to: